A police cordon has been put in place in Bath following an incident in which several people were taken ill after a woman allegedly approached them with a bag. The incident happened in Stall Street at around 2.30pm this afternoon, Monday 29 July.
Police, paramedics and firefighters are on scene. This blog is live and we will keep you updated below.
Avon and Somerset Police said: “Emergency services are responding to an incident in Bath. At around 2.30pm, a woman approached people with a bag, causing some people to become unwell. The ambulance service alerted us at 3.08pm.
“As a precaution, emergency services personnel are wearing protective clothing. We are working with South West Ambulance Service and Avon Fire and Rescue at the scene and have well-established plans to respond to such incidents.
This is a live blog. We will keep you updated below.
17:22The important event
Two people taken to hospital
Avon and Somerset Police reported that two people were taken to hospital following the incident. They said:
Two people were taken to hospital by South Western Ambulance Service this afternoon after reporting breathing difficulties and itchy eyes. Emergency services remain on scene at this time, but we hope to reopen the area as soon as possible.
17:11The important event
First photos
17:02The important event
Fears of chemical attack
A witness said he saw members of the public being treated at the scene, PA reports. The witness said:
They took a woman in blue tarps and apparently hosed her down. She must have been asked to undress, because she came out wearing a large orange jumpsuit that covered her body. She was then taken to the ambulance, escorted by what I believe was a paramedic wearing a full hazmat suit and breathing apparatus.
16:59Oliver Astley
Incident near the Roman baths
BristolLive understands the incident took place near the city’s Roman baths.
16:56The important event
Full police statement
Avon and Somerset Police have issued a statement regarding the incident in Stall Street, Bath.
